On September 8, 2024, on Yale Cancer Answers, Dr. Eric Winer interviewed Jennifer Moliterno, MD, FAANS, Chief of Neurosurgical Oncology and Clinical Director of the Chênevert Family Brain Tumor Center at Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale Cancer Center. As a neurosurgeon, Dr. Moliterno specializes in the surgical treatment of all types of primary brain tumors, including gliomas (GBMs, oligodendrogliomas, astrocytomas), meningiomas, and acoustic neuromas (vestibular schwannomas), as well as other relatively less common tumor types. She performs the highest volume of brain tumor surgery in the state of Connecticut and routinely cares for patients seeking second or third opinions from afar. Dr. Moliterno’s research interests parallel that of her clinical practice with a bench-to-bedside focus on the clinical implications of the genomics of brain tumors.
On this episode of Yale Cancer Answers, Dr. Moliterno discusses her particular expertise in the treatment of complex brain tumors with the safe and effective use of more sophisticated microsurgical techniques, such as functional brain mapping and awake craniotomy for tumors located in highly functioning brain (i.e. speech and motor) areas, as well as those arising along the skull base.
Dr. Moliterno’s passion for taking care of her patients drives her work. “I get to take care of people at the highest level, which is incredibly rewarding,” she said. Dr. Moliterno alleviates patients’ concerns by helping them understand the procedures they’re about to undergo. “It’s amazing how people really understand their condition and our treatment approach once they see their films.”